Initiative for safer slippers targets fall prevention

Individuals exchanged worn-out slippers for new ones specifically designed to reduce the risk of falls. The “Slipper Swap” event took place at Burlington Baptist Church in Ipswich, targeting individuals aged 65 and above, as their existing worn indoor footwear could pose a safety hazard. Attendees of the three-hour drop-in session received refreshments, including tea and toast, while nurses assisted them in selecting suitable new slippers. This program seeks to decrease the likelihood of individuals experiencing falls, thereby preventing potential suffering and reducing strain on healthcare systems. Ashish Sam Abraham, who serves as the integrated neighbourhood team project lead at Suffolk County Council, stated: “It is about how we can help them before they have a fall or, if they’ve had a fall, let’s prevent them having a second one because it is painful.” He added: “I am not saying these slippers will completely eliminate that, but hopefully we are making a difference.” Alan Norman, a 73-year-old resident of Ipswich, commented: “My current slippers have seen better days because I do what you shouldn’t do and wear them in the garden.” He continued: “So, I thought I would come and get myself a nice new pair of slippers. They are very good quality and they fit a treat.” Claire Smith, aged 67, also from Ipswich, expressed being “really, really pleased” with her “very comfortable” new slippers. She further remarked: “They’re what you need when you get to a certain age with all your aches and pains and have arthritis,” she added. Smith concluded: “I am not as steady on my feet as I would like to be so having these slippers being a nice glove on my foot will help me not be so clumsy. I am beyond pleased.” Hollie Rackham, the integrated neighbourhood team manager at the East Suffolk and North Essex NHS Foundation Trust, also commented. She stated: “Usually people fall because of ill-fitting footwear so if we can prevent a fall then it is a success.” Rackham added: “It’s really lovely [seeing people leaving with a new pair of slippers] – it is an incredible feeling and we are really lucky.” She also mentioned: “We’ve also looked at our housebound population, so everybody will have a nice new pair of slippers in time for Christmas.” For more Suffolk news, follow BBC Sounds, Facebook, Instagram, and X. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC bears no responsibility for the content found on external websites. Information regarding their approach to external linking is available.